Storage Device Trace Module for Internal Error Data Logging

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing storage devices require external devices to generate and store trace data during error conditions, which can be impractical in environments where external connections are difficult.

Innovation Solution

A storage device with a trace module integrated into the storage controller that generates and stores trace data internally within the non-volatile memory, including trace data for processor operations and transmission/reception signals, without the need for external devices.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If external devices are used to generate and store trace data, then trace data can be obtained for error analysis, but the system requires external connections which are difficult in certain environments

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveerror detection capabilityVSAvoidoperational independence

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The storage device performs trace data generation and storage independently using its own processor and non-volatile memory, without requiring external devices. The processor generates trace data for its own operations and stores it in the non-volatile memory, enabling self-diagnosis and error analysis in isolated environments.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The trace generation and storage functions are merged into the storage device itself, combining the processor that generates trace data with the non-volatile memory that stores it. This integration eliminates the need for separate external tracing equipment and enables autonomous error analysis.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Adaptability or versatility

If external devices are used for trace data storage, then trace functionality is provided, but the device complexity and connection requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetrace functionalityVSAvoidsystem configuration

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The non-volatile memory serves dual purposes: storing user data and storing trace data. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated trace storage resources and simplifies the overall system configuration while maintaining comprehensive trace capabilities.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS10860455B2Storage device for generating trace data and method of operating the same

Publication Date: 2020.12.08 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD

AI summary

A storage device and a method of operating the storage device are provided. The storage device includes a non-volatile memory including a plurality of non-volatile memory cells, a processor configured to control an operation of storing data received from a host in the non-volatile memory, a host interface configured to transmit and receive the data and control signals to and from the host, and a trace module. The trace module is configured to generate trace data for the processor or the host interface during an operation of the processor or the host interface and the trace module is configured to provide the trace data to the non-volatile memory.